Computer control of Gstar-ex

[Shaun]

Hi all,

I have been looking at the connections for this camera and wanted to know from anyone that has one if you are able to get a usb connector for the RS-232 cable.

On the camera is has what looks like an 8 pin mini din but i am not sure what is on the other end of the lead, my laptop only has usb ports.

[Gerald Sargent]

There are various USB to RS232 adapters available on the market, ensure
that what you get is compatible with your operating system.
On the mini-din socket pins1-2-3 are RS232, 1=TXD, 2=RXD,
3= ground/common. Hope this helps, Gerald.

[Karls48]

RS232 to GStar does not work. You need to convert RS232 to RS485. Converters are available on eBay.

[tonybarry]

Not sure whether the Gstar has an RS485 or an RS232 port. The camera itself could come with either, with the manufacturer supplying RS232 as an option. Since Binary Systems do an OEM with the GStar manufacturers, the RS232 option would probably be in there.

The cable from Steve Massey costs AUD65 which kind of suggests there is no 485 circuitry involved. An IC, the 75176 would be needed as a minimum - see this page for a circuit:-
http://www.airborn.com.au/layout/232to485.html
such converters are apx AUD50 to do yourself and over AUD100 to buy premade.

If you are not very conversant with electronics, I seriously suggest that you get the cable from Steve Massey. You will have assurance that it works. I presume from your post that you have the cable.

An RS232 to USB converter will be available from many sources, Keyspan may well be the best (though pricey) but I have used generic PL2303 devices with success (using the Prolific chipset and drivers).

Regards,
Tony Barry

(Disclaimer - I am not affiliated with Steve Massey or MyAstroShop or Binary Systems, although I am looking seriously at their camera).
[edited for spelling]

[33South]

The older cameras are 485, I use a 485 to 232 converter then an ATEN (Prolific chipset) serial to USB adapter with no problems (XP and Vista).

However the cameras now being sold by MyAstroShop come with an RS232 port according to the spec on the web site.